Anyone who needs help getting their kids to brush their teeth should check out these insights from Dr. Khuong Nguyen.

Getting kids to brush their teeth can be difficult. That said, children who pick up good oral hygiene habits now may enjoy better health throughout life. Dentist Dr. Khuong Nguyen provides insights.

“As a parent, one of the best things you can do for your children is to teach them how to develop healthy routines,” notes Dr. Khuong Nguyen. “And when it comes to healthy habits, proper oral hygiene is crucial. Your children may not only enjoy better oral health right now, but also potentially throughout life.”

That said, actually teaching children is often easier said than done. Children can be rambunctious and often don’t understand the full consequences of their actions. This is especially true with young children. Fortunately, by adopting the right approach, you can increase your chances of success.

“First, as a parent, it’s often wise to lead by example. Make sure you brush your teeth as directed by your dentist,” suggests Dr. Khuong Nguyen. “While brushing, you can invite your child to watch while you brush or brush together.”

Often, children will imitate their parents’ behavior. Indeed, this is a crucial “survival” mechanism. If your children watch you brush your teeth, there’s a good chance that they’ll try to follow in your footsteps. This is also true for flossing, rinsing their mouth, and more.

Further, it’s smart to offer words of encouragement. A simple “I’m so proud of you” can go a long way. On the other hand, frequent negative energy may discourage children from brushing. From time to time, parents might need to step in to correct their kids’ teeth brushing methods, just remember to remain positive.

Dr. Khuong Nguyen Suggests Keeping Teeth Brushing In Good Taste

Kids are often more sensitive to tastes and many other things as well. As a parent, it’s smart to keep these differences in mind.

“Children have sensitive taste buds,” Dr. Khuong Nguyen notes. “Mint is a strong flavor even for adults. For children, it’s often overwhelming. You should offer your children flavored toothpaste. These days, it’s not hard to find fruit and bubblegum flavored toothpaste.”

Parents should pay close attention to which toothpastes kids prefer. Some kids may love a particular watermelon flavored toothpaste, while another child may like strawberry. Either way, many children will be more willing to brush their teeth if they love the flavor.

It’s also smart to let children select a toothbrush that they like. These days, many retailers carry themed toothbrushes. Spiderman, dinosaurs, SpongeBob SquarePants, there are many options.

“Ultimately, making brushing fun and positive goes a long, long way,” Dr. Khuong Nguyen points out. “You might play your child’s favorite songs while they brush their teeth or maybe you create a sticker chart. Each time the child brushes, parents can check that off by placing a sticker on the chart.”

The above tips could help a lot. However, parents who continue to struggle with getting their kids to brush should ask their dentist and other medical experts for advice.